Fine Gael told to be ready for election post-Kenny

Fine Gael have been warned to be on an election footing once the change in the party’s leadership is finally dealt with and Enda Kenny steps down.

Party secretary general Tom Curran twice told party TDs and senators at their weekly meeting there are a number of reforms and issues that must be dealt with but these can only be acted upon when the leadership issue is resolved. This followed a discussion with parliamentary members about two reports into last year’s disappointing election result for Fine Gael.

Party members said the comments about the leadership were significant and also taken to mean that the party could move into election mode once Mr Kenny’s successor takes over.